Search - I Smile Back on DVD

B.J. W. (analogkid01) from CHICAGO, IL
Reviewed on 7/5/2025...

Oftentimes, comedians become comedians as an act of self-defense and self-preservation. Comedy becomes a shield against trauma of varying intensity. (Kevin Pollak even made a whole documentary about this phenomenon, "Misery Loves Comedy.")

As a result, comedians often turn in phenomenal performances in dramatic roles. Robin Williams in Good Will Hunting, Tom Hanks in Philadelphia, etc. They embody the tragicomedy of life the way few others can.

In 2015, Sarah Silverman appeared in "I Smile Back."

Holy.

Shit.

The emotional impact of this film and Silverman's performance cannot be overstated. Silverman plays Laney Brooks, suburban wife and mother of two. Her husband Bruce (Josh Charles, who you saw in Dead Poets Society way back when) is an insurance salesman, and apparently a hugely successful one judging by the size of their house. Laney has "a perfect life."

So why does she snort cocaine, hide liquor bottles around the house, and have extramarital affairs? Why is she so self-destructive? Some backstory is given, and it's understandable why Laney is as fearful and anxiety-ridden as she is. Was she pressured into marriage? into motherhood? It's clear she regrets her decisions but isn't capable of following through with them. She's terrified of being needed.

There's not a complex story here, and the film, like Lacey, starts to fall apart in its second half (namely with the introduction of Laney's estranged and poorly-written father, played by Chris Sarandon). But it remains riveting and raw throughout its 85-minute run time. I would love to see Sarah Silverman in more dramatic roles - this is definitely not the same Sarah Silverman who won an Emmy for fucking Matt Damon.

Grade: B

P.S. I also want to shout out to the late Barry Crimmins's autobiographical documentary "Call Me Lucky." This one follows in the theme of trauma-based comedy, and Barry's story will absolutely blow you away.

K. K. (GAMER)
Reviewed on 12/27/2019...

Rough to watch with an ending that you will not like.